Imagine sitting in a packed theatre, watching your favourite Indian movie unfold—when suddenly, a familiar face from Hollywood or a European blockbuster appears on screen. It’s a surreal moment, right? More like a fusion of worlds you never expected to collide.
Over the years, Indian cinema has welcomed international actors in ways that feel organic, exciting, and sometimes even ground-breaking. They’ve played ruthless villains, kind-hearted allies, and complex characters who stay with us long after the credits roll. With blockbusters like L2: Empuraan on the horizon, the line between Indian and global cinema is blurring faster than ever. The much-anticipated sequel to Lucifer has already created a buzz with the announcement of British actor Jerome Flynn, best known for Game of Thrones, joining the cast. His presence signals a grander international vision for Malayalam cinema, and if rumours about Rick Yune’s involvement turn out to be true, we might be in for a truly global spectacle.
But Flynn is just the latest in a growing list of international actors who have made their mark on Indian films. Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable ones.
1. Ray Stevenson – RRR (2022)
Irish actor Ray Stevenson made a strong and lasting impression in Indian cinema with his role as the ruthless Governor Scott Buxton in RRR. As the film’s main antagonist, he brought a commanding presence to the screen, making the character’s cruelty feel all too real. His performance added weight to the story, making the stakes feel higher and the heroism more powerful. Stevenson’s role in RRR was a strong example of how Indian films are embracing international talent in meaningful authentic ways. His passing in May 2023 was a heart-breaking loss, but his portrayal in RRR remains unforgettable, a true reminder of his incredible screen presence.
Ray Stevenson’s fierce presence in RRR made the villainy unforgettable—his legacy lives onwww.easterneye.biz
2. Jerome Flynn – L2: Empuraan (Upcoming)
The British actor, best known for his role in Game of Thrones, is gearing up for his Malayalam cinema debut in L2: Empuraan, the highly anticipated sequel to Lucifer, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran. With a reputation for playing sharp-witted and rugged characters, his addition to the Mohanlal-starrer suggests a film with an even grander, global scope. If that wasn’t exciting enough, speculation about Rick Yune’s involvement has only fuelled the buzz.
Jerome Flynn joins L2: Empuraan, bringing global intrigue to the Mohanlal-starrerInstagram/empuraanmovie
3. James Cosmo – Jagame Thandhiram (2021)
Another Game of Thrones veteran, James Cosmo, famous for playing Jeor Mormont, took on the role of a London-based gangster in Jagame Thandhiram. Director Karthik Subbaraj had initially dreamt of casting Hollywood icons like Robert De Niro or Al Pacino, but Cosmo brought his own gravitas, elevating the film’s international appeal.
James Cosmo as a powerful London gangster in Jagame ThandhiramGetty Images
4. Mike Tyson – Liger (2022)
The boxing legend’s Bollywood-Tollywood crossover in Liger was hyped as a ground-breaking moment. Though the film didn’t live up to expectations, Tyson’s cameo as a formidable fighter facing off against Vijay Deverakonda remains a wild and unforgettable pop culture moment in Indian cinema.
Mike Tyson’s power-packed cameo in LigerInstagram/miketyson
5. Toby Stephens – Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)
British actor Toby Stephens, known for his roles in Die Another Day and Black Sails, played Captain William Gordon in this period drama opposite Aamir Khan. His portrayal of the conflicted British officer added depth to the retelling of India’s first war of independence.
Toby Stephens as the conflicted Captain Gordon in Mangal PandeyGetty Images
6. Rachel Shelley – Lagaan (2001)
Before Game of Thrones and the OTT revolution, Lagaan put Indian cinema on the global map, earning an Oscar nomination. British actress Rachel Shelley played Elizabeth Russell, a kind-hearted Englishwoman who helps Aamir Khan’s character master cricket—a performance that still resonates with fans of Indian cinema.
Rachel Shelley as the kind-hearted Elizabeth Russell in LagaanGetty Images
7. Erika Kaar – Shivaay (2016)
Polish actress Erika Kaar starred alongside Ajay Devgn in Shivaay, a high-octane action thriller. Her role as a foreign national caught in a web of crime in India showcased the industry’s growing inclination toward international talent to add authenticity to global narratives.
Erika Kaar starred alongside Ajay Devgn in the action thriller ShivaayGetty Images
8. Mish Boyko – Queen (2014)
Kangana Ranaut’s Queen was all about self-discovery, and along the way, she met Mish Boyko’s fun-loving Russian character, Oleksander. The British actor brought charm and humour, making him a fan favourite in this beloved film about embracing life beyond cultural boundaries.
Mish Boyko won hearts as the fun-loving Oleksander in Queen
Mish Boyko won hearts as the fun-loving Oleksander in QueenGetty Images
The future of global collaboration in Indian cinema
With Indian films becoming more internationally recognised and accessible through streaming platforms, collaborations with Hollywood and global cinema are set to rise. Whether it’s through major stars lending their charisma to Indian films or new faces making surprising debuts, the future of cross-cultural storytelling is more exciting than ever.
But who’s next? Maybe we’ll see Gary Oldman in a Malayalam crime thriller or Charlize Theron in a Tamil action spectacle. At this point, nothing feels too far-fetched.
One thing’s for sure—the era of Indian cinema being a local phenomenon is long gone. The world isn’t just watching anymore. They want in!
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.